New Delhi

Olympic and world champion Neeraj Chopra has revealed that legendary tennis player Roger Federer is a big fan of Indian food. Chopra met Federer in January, earlier this year and the duo discussed all things sports, life and food habits. 

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Speaking at the virtual media briefing, Chopra said he was awestruck meeting Federer and asked him what was the secret of maintaining longevity at the top. 

"Yes, I met him in January this year. It felt good meeting him. It's great to meet a top-level player from any sport. So it felt good. First of all, as a person, I felt positive vibes from him. Secondly, our chat. I only had one question in mind. I wanted to ask him about his lengthy career and how he was able to stay on top of the sport for a long time. I wanted to ask how he was able to maintain that."

"So these are things that I also think about. So that was it. The rest were normal talks. I asked if he had visited India and if he liked Indian food. So he told me, 'Indian food is in my top 5.' So it felt good," added Neeraj.

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The two superstars met in Zurich and had a mutual admiration for each other. Federer particularly praised Chopra for achieving so much in his relatively short career. 

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“I am amazed by how much Neeraj has achieved personally and for his country through his grit and determination. It’s been great to meet him here in Zurich,” the 20-time Grand Slam winner said.

Also read | To retain Olympics gold will be biggest aim in Paris - Neeraj Chopra ahead of big 2024 challenge

After the meeting. Federer presented Chopra with an autographed tennis racquet while the Indian javelin star handed the former World No 1 a signed India jersey from the Asian Games.

Chopra's next challenge 

26-year-old Chopra will begin his season in the Doha Diamond League Meeting on May 10 before taking the field at the Paavo Nurmi Games in Turku, Finland on June 18.

Chopra won a silver in the 2022 edition with a throw of 89.30 metres. However, this time, his challenge will be up-and-coming star, 19-year-old Max Dehning of Germany, who recently entered the 90-metre club. 

(With inputs from agencies)